GUM DISEASE PREVENTION FOR THOSE WITH BRACES
GUM DISEASE PREVENTION FOR THOSE WITH BRACES
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a common oral health issue affecting millions of individuals worldwide. It is a bacterial infection caused by the buildup of plaque on the teeth and gums. The problem is often exacerbated when an individual has braces. It is not that braces cause gum disease directly, but they can make it more difficult to keep your mouth clean. Therefore, special considerations are necessary to prevent gum disease while wearing braces.
Preventing gum disease when you have braces is possible with diligent oral hygiene. The first step is to consider using an electric toothbrush. These devices can remove more plaque than manual toothbrushes, and they often have built-in timers to ensure you brush for the recommended two minutes.
Second, brush your teeth after every meal. This might seem excessive, but remember, braces can trap food particles that can lead to plaque buildup. When brushing, angle your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle against your gums to ensure you're cleaning both your teeth and braces effectively.
Third, invest in interdental brushes. These small brushes can clean around your braces and between your teeth, where regular toothbrushes might struggle to reach. Fourth, try to be mindful of what you eat. Sticky, hard, or sugary foods can damage your braces and contribute to plaque buildup. Instead, opt for softer foods that are less likely to get stuck in your braces.
Fifth, use mouthwash. It can reach areas of your mouth that brushing and flossing can't. Choose a mouthwash with antibacterial properties to help reduce the bacteria that cause gum disease. Rinse your mouth with it for at least 30 seconds, twice daily.
When it comes to gum disease prevention with braces, there are some special considerations to keep in mind. One is the type of braces you have. Traditional metal braces can pose more oral hygiene challenges than removable aligners like Invisalign. If you have metal braces, you need to take extra care in cleaning around the brackets and wires.
Another consideration is the length of time you'll be wearing your braces. The longer you have braces, the more vigilant you must be about your oral hygiene practices. It's easy to become complacent over time, but remember, consistency is key to preventing gum disease.
Lastly, keep an eye on your gum health. If you notice signs of gum disease like redness, swelling, bleeding, or persistent bad breath, contact your dentist immediately. Early intervention can help prevent the progression of gum disease.
Regular dentist check-ups are crucial for anyone looking to prevent gum disease, not just those with braces. Your dentist will clean areas of your mouth that you might miss and check for early signs of gum disease. If you have braces, these regular check-ups become even more critical.
During your appointment, your dentist can remove plaque and tartar from hard-to-reach areas around your braces. They can also assess the health of your gums and provide any necessary treatment to prevent gum disease from progressing.
Wearing braces is a significant commitment, but the results are well worth the effort. However, it's essential to maintain your oral health during this period. Through these measures, you can ensure that when your braces come off, you'll be revealing not just straighter teeth, but a healthier smile too.
To learn more on gum disease prevention while wearing braces, visit Woodyard Dental Care in our Paducah, Kentucky office. Call (270) 408-1321 to schedule an appointment today.
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Jay S
Dr. Woodyard has been my general dentist for more than 10 years and he’s always been so concerned and professional. He is up to date on all the newest innovative treatments. He has done several crowns for me and I was able to get it all done in one day since they were made with the latest technology in house by Dr. Woodyard. I would highly recommend him for all dental needs.
Melissa W
Best dentist I've been to! Very professional operation in all respects. Love that Dr. Woodyard does the majority of usual procedures right in house -- including crowns and root canals. Getting a crown in one visit is truly amazing. Mary is a wonderful hygienist with a solid knowledge of her area of expertise. You won't be disappointed!
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Note: We are closed for lunch from 1 - 2 Tue, Wed, & Thurs
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HOURS
Monday: By Appointment Only
Tuesday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday: 7:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Sat & Sun: Closed
Note: We are closed for lunch from
1 - 2 Tue, Wed, & Thurs.
12:30 - 1:00 Friday
© 2024 Woodyard Dental Care LLC
Website Powered And Hosted By A.I. My Biz